Broncos are 2.5-point favorites against Raiders this week

The Denver Broncos (6-8) are considered 2.5-point favorites against the Oakland Raiders (3-11) this week, according to USA TODAY Sports’ odds tracker. The over/under for total points scored is 44.5.

Considering that oddsmakers usually spot the home team a three-point advantage, Denver is barely considered a favorite. Coming off two straight losses, the Broncos weren’t even given a field goal advantage by oddsmakers.

Both of these AFC West teams have already been eliminated from playoff contention so there’s little to play for besides pride. The loser will also secure a higher selection in the 2019 NFL draft, but neither team would admit to tanking on purpose.

Denver has a good reason to avoid tanking: owner Pat Bowlen has more Super Bowl appearances (seven) than losing seasons (six). If the Broncos do not finish 8-8, one of Bowlen’s most impressive stats will vanish.

Denver should try to win for Bowlen, who is among the finalists for next year’s Pro Football Hall of Fame class.